‘This is no ordinary tour!’

The northern part of Scandinavia is an extraordinary place of beauty, intrigue and extremes. Inside the arctic circle, Lapland is an expansive region of snow, reindeer, the Sámi people and the magnificent Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights.

Traditionally, the Swedish believed the Aurora to be the souls of their ancestors, and something to be somewhat feared. The Finnish believed it to be the tail of the fox, swooshing across the sky. These days we know it to be the interaction of the sun’s radiation with the earth’s atmosphere and magnetosphere. Although we now have this scientific explanation, there is no denying the incredible, uplifting experience of seeing the Aurora….and photographing it!

This time-lapse video was captured in Swedish Lapland by David Evans over two nights in December, 2014. Be sure to select HD when viewing!

Video by Peter Rosén, our local guide! Please click on the viewer to watch on Vimeo

Some images from our previous tours…

Scroll down below the image gallery to see more tour information including our itinerary!

Itinerary

Day 1

Day 1

Lapland Landscapes and Aurora Borealis: We will pick you up at the airport or any hotel in Kiruna after lunch. We will get dressed in warm clothing and head out to Aurora Wilderness Camp where you can light a fire and settle into your cosy cabin in the forest – cosy and charming with beautiful views over the Torne River, the mountains and excellent spots for aurora photography straight from your cabin. A great place for adventures. We will use the evening light for landscape photography from the lodge. Before dinner we will go through the basics in aurora and night photography.

After a two-course gourmet dinner at the lodge it is time to gear up and head out for aurora hunting! We will keep an eye on the weather and aurora forecast and head to whichever location offers us the best chance of seeing the aurora borealis, and we have many stunning locations to choose from!

Day 2

Day 2

Dog-sledding and Aurora Borealis: We start a dogsledding tour in the morning from our cabins. Our dog sledding guide will drive us into the forest and onto frozen lakes for several hours, making stops for photography along the way. Lunch outdoors over an open fire inside a lavvu (a traditional Sami teepee tent). In the afternoon we will have some free time to download images, time for private tuition and perhaps a wood-heated sauna. After dinner, we will go aurora hunting, a pattern we repeat each and every night. If the aurora comes out to dance, we are often out quite late (trust us, you will forget you are tired if you are watching the aurora!).

Day 3

Day 3

Reindeer sledding, Sami Culture, wooden heated sauna and Aurora Borealis: You will be allocated your own reindeer and lead it to your sled, where you will be instructed on how to handle your sled and reindeer – Vuoján. The tour will take several hours as we wind our way through beautiful forest and over frozen rivers and lakes. Vuoján is the traditional way for Sámi to travel and a magical experience. After the tour we will eat a traditional Sami lunch around the fire inside a lavvu (a traditional Sami teepee tent) and learn about the Sami life today. In the afternoon you have access to a wooden heated sauna just next to the frozen river. After a 2 course dinner we will head out for the Aurora again. The location will be chosen to maximise our chances for a great show and nice foregrounds for our images.

Day 4

Day 4

ICEHOTEL, wooden heated sauna and the Aurora Borealis. After breakfast we will visit the world famous ICEHOTEL, which is the world’s first hotel made of ice and snow. Founded in 1989, it is reborn in a new guise each winter, in the Swedish village of Jukkasjärvi. A very nice location for photography! We will have lunch at the ICEHOTEL and then go to the old church in Jukkasjärvi. The church is from 1607. In the afternoon we will have time for private questions, down loading images or the wooden heated sauna. In the evening we will go out dog sledding again and try to see the Aurora. The dogs will become a nice foreground to our images.

Day 5

Day 5

A Trip to the Mountains – Moose spotting, Landscapes and Aurora Borealis: After breakfast we will drive up into the mountains to photograph the beautiful landscape and perhaps also moose. Moose is the largest species in the deer family. You are welcome to borrow long Canon telephoto lenses from us for wildlife photography (eg. 400:2.8, 300,2.8, 400:4.0, 300:4.0). Then we will drive up into the mountains towards the border with Norway to the small village of Abisko – famous for aurora watching. We settle into our accommodations before heading out again to photograph the mid-winter landscape of Abisko National Park. After our sumptuous 3 course dinner, it’s time to gear up. We will either take a snowmobile ride into the Abisko valley or take a minibus to a nice photo spot. We are flexible to maximise our chances for great aurora images. We return to our hotel around midnight for a well-deserved sleep.

Day 6

Day 6

Mountain Landscapes, Aurora Borealis and Astro Photography: This day offers the perfect a mix of outdoor photography and tuition. Abisko National Park and its surroundings are an adventurer’s playground, and offer a diverse range of subject matter for great photography. Your hotel is placed inside the National Park and depending on your preferences and previous activities, we will spend time on editing your images. We can also go through how to best edit images of the Milky Way, nebula and other deep sky objects. The chances to see and photograph moose is also very good in the Abisko National Par and we might take a snow mobile sleigh ride into the Abisko valley. After a 3 course dinner, we jump on a snowmobile and head into the wilderness to a traditional lavvu (tipi tent), set up in our own location to provide a wonderful foreground for the aurora, or a great subject to photograph in its own right. We’ll also have a fire in the tent and have a chance to sit and talk about everything we’ve experienced during our tour. It’s a wonderful time to reflect on our trip and spend time with new friends in the group, who by now know each other rather well!

Day 7

Day 7

The Norwegian fjords, landscape, Aurora Borealis and Astro Photography: After breakfast we will head up further into the mountains and make a drive to Norway. We will see and photograph many nice mountain landscapes along the way and possibly see reindeer along the road. In the Norwegian town Narvik we will visit a local fish restaurant (they do also serve other non fish dishes as well) and then head into one of the most spectacular fjords in Norway for some great landscape photography. After our 3 course gourmet dinner in Abisko we will head out for the Aurora again. We have access to the AWD minibus and Volvo for the entire stay so we can be flexible and choose the best location for the night. It does also happen that we end up in Peter’s cabin which is nicely located for the Aurora and a good place for photo tutorials.

Day 8

Day 8

Departure: After dragging ourselves out of bed and having breakfast, you depart at a civilized mid-morning time to Kiruna for some shopping, visiting the church in Kiruna and then to the airport. You may like to spend more time in Stockholm, or stop over at one of the many wonderful European destinations on your way home. By now you will be wanting to sleep for a million years, but you will not be able to wipe the smile off your face! We recommend booking your departure flight at the earliest around lunch time.

Inclusions

4 nights at Aurora Wilderness Camp next one of the largest rivers in Sweden, the Torne River and 3 nights at the STF Abisko Hotel inside the Abisko National Park. Full board from dinner day 1 to breakfast day 8. Wine and beer are included the first 4 evenings. Gluten free, vegetarian and vegan meals available upon request

7 evenings with aurora and astro photography, weather permitting

Full day dogsledding including lunch outdoors and full evening dog sledding including night photography

Reindeer sledding and reindeer photography with Sami people

Moose spotting and photography

Day visit to the ICEHOTEL

Snow mobile sleigh rides into nice photo locations

Visit the Abisko National Park and the Norwegian fjords

Access to an authentic wooden heated sauna for your first 4 nights

Access to an AWD minibus, AWD Volvo and snow mobile during the entire stay to increase flexibility and our chances to see nice northern lights and get the photos you are longing for

Warm overalls to be worn over your clothes, warm hat and boots, woollen socks and gloves

Free Wi-Fi at the lodge and hotel in Abisko

2 Epson A4 fine art prints of your favourite images from the trip

Both our base locations have been particularly chosen so it’s possible to see and photograph the aurora from your accommodation!

Exclusions

International flights to and from Stockholm and all related taxes, visas and levies that may be incurred

Domestic flights from Stockholm to Kiruna (Swedish Lapland) return

alcoholic beverages and soft drinks on the last 3 nights only, and personal items

travel insurance (mandatory)

your own personal camera equipment and laptop computer (optional)

Ice Hotel overnight stay – Optional

If you’d like to stay a night in the Ice Hotel, we can arrange it for you on the night before the tour officially starts – as an optional extra. We will visit the Ice Hotel during the daytime on our tour, regardless.

Some of the professional photographic equipment you can use on the tour!

Lonely Planet recently named Abisko, in Swedish Lapland, as the best place in the world to view the Aurora Borealis. This is because Abisko is nestled between the impressive Scandinavian mountain range and Lake Torneträsk. The unique topography creates a rain shadow and therefore clearer weather than the rest of northern Scandinavia.

This very special photographic tour is led by David Evans, Lonely Planet photographer, writer and award-winning travel, landscape and commercial photographer. David has been spending time in recent years exploring his Finnish and Swedish heritage, including travel throughout Norway, Denmark, Finland and Sweden in both summer and winter.

Although we have an emphasis on photography, all levels of photographic ability are catered for, and our itinerary is also of interest to non-photographers, including partners. All of the activities and sights are incredible in their own right. A moderate level of fitness is required for activities such as reindeer sledding, dog sledding and walking through deep snow. Minimum age is 15 years, and maximum age is ‘as old as you feel’! There are also options such as sitting on the reindeer sled rather than standing, or riding comfortably in the snowmobile sled.

As a special offer to all participants, Epson Australia will print two A4 fine art prints of your favourite images from your trip!

Our local guide Peter Rosén is a professional photographer and expert in aurora, night, landscape and wildlife photography. Aside from providing our transport by allwheel drive van and snowmobile, he also knows all the best local spots for photography, and has a few surprises up his sleeve! David and Peter will also show you how to create magnificent time-lapse videos of the aurora. Tuition is mostly hands-on photography rather than computer-based…we spend most of the time photographing, and we are there to help you create excellent photographs!

We have a maximum of 8 participants per group which is a very small number with two guides…this is to ensure each person receives an excellent level of personal tuition and care. Both David and Peter have extensive experience in photographic tuition.

This tour is the result of the most spectacular itinerary that David and Peter could possibly assemble, and includes many things you won’t find on a regular tour. We have also timed the tours with the phases of the moon to give the best chance of creating some spectacular aurora images. Needless to say, this is the tour of a lifetime you don’t want to miss!

Some feedback from our tours;

My wife and I did Peter and David’s 8-day photography tour of Lapland and we can’t recommend it highly enough. Not only did we see (and photograph) the Aurora Borealis on multiple nights we went dog sledding, reindeer sledding, captured rare mother-of-pearl clouds, learnt about Sami culture, and enjoyed some great food along the way (all dietary problems can be accommodated) including a delicious meal at the beautiful ice hotel. We were able to get to some unique locations to capture the northern lights against some beautiful foregrounds.
Peter has lived and worked in the area for many years and is very knowledgeable, not only about photography but also the local environment and climate. When weather conditions prevented us from doing certain activities he always had a back-up plan and we also learnt a lot about how to better photograph the night sky. I would recommend this tour for photographers of all levels, he is very patient and helpful with beginners whilst setting some new challenges for those that are more advanced.
The clothing and equipment provided was excellent and our safety and well-being in the extreme conditions was always a priority. The accommodation was very comfortable.
All in all an excellent tour, I think the best we have done!
Thanks Peter & David!

Stephen & Meredith

Thank you Peter and David. I’ve had one of the most enjoyable weeks I can remember. Yes at times I was cold and yes at times I was confused trying to set the camera up correctly. But you fixed all that. I am no longer a ‘point and shoot’ person. I now think about my photos and I know a great deal more than when I started about shutter speeds, ISO, aperture, composition, depth, shade and light and the list goes on. Chasing auroras by night and dog sledding, reindeer sledding and more by day. Fantastic secret photo sights and locations that a tourist would not know about. Your friendly, easy approach to educating us was terrific. I can without hesitation recommend Peter and his tours to one and all.

Dave & Debbie

The Aurora Borealis will change your life! Peter and David were determined to provide us with as many opportunities to see them as they could. Peter monitored the Aurora forecast and had a plan to travel where the visibility was best. In fact, I don’t think he slept! The other people providing lodging and services were warming and worked hard to make us all comfortable. They worked hard to meet my dietary needs, which is always difficult when I travel.
Peter and David were flexible with the needs of our group and did it all with a smile:) The only thing I wished we had time for was one more day in Norway….but they have a Norway tour! They just give you a taste so you come back and I plan to! You won’t regret this trip!

Jessica

David and Peter were warm and welcoming from the first time I contacted them. They have a depth of knowledge about the local area and photography. They strove to make sure everyone had a great experience and came home with beautiful images.
The small group size is perfect for getting personalised support from experienced photographers.
The tour is very organised and comfortable. Days can be long but it is definitely worth doing as much as possible. There is plenty of opportunity for quiet time too.
Highlights:
– aurora
– dog sledding
– Reindeer
The cold was new to me, but some tips from Peter went a long way. Definitely recommend emailing any questions in advance and taking everything with you as there are limited opportunities to resupply.
This was an excellent, once in a lifetime experience and I would love to do more trips with David and Peter.

Brent

I have just returned from the Swedish Lapland and Aurora Borealis tour with Lonely Planet photographer David Evans and local guide Peter Rosen, a professional photographer and expert in aurora, night, landscape and wildlife photography. What an amazing experience this was. From the time I arrived in Stockholm, I was so well looked after. I am a point and shoot photographer but with the guidance of Peter and David, I have brought home some incredible photos. Peter’s local knowledge meant we went to beautiful locations by dog sled and vehicle, and I thoroughly enjoyed not only the photographic opportunities but also being able to participate in activities such as dog sledding, reindeer sledding, visiting the famous Ice Hotel, and enjoying life in the forest outside Kiruna. Our accommodation both in the forest and at Abrisko was excellent as were all our meals. We were so fortunate to have had good weather, and to see the northern lights on 6 out of 7 nights. Peter went out of his way to make sure we had every opportunity including driving into Norway on the last night because of fog in Abrisko, where we saw the most amazing aurora borealis display, so much so that many of us put down the cameras and just watched in awe as the northern lights burst up from behind the cliffs and danced and weaved across the sky. Thank you David and Peter for this once in a lifetime experience. If you want to see Swedish Lapland in all its beauty, book this tour, you will not regret it.

Jackie

This photographic tour conducted mainly by Peter Rosen and David Evans is an experience of a lifetime. The places that we have been to are places(e.g. dog sledding day and night, Aurora Chase, visit to a Sami family,etc) I believe were not possible on a normal tour. Peter specialises in small group with a maximum of 9. The care and attention he gave to us were special. He never shows any irritation with our numerous queries about Sweden, Sami cultures, and of course camera settings and compositions. The highlights for me other than the chase of the Aurora is the dog sledding in the forest it is magical. I highly recommend it if you like photography and the magical icy landscapes.

Benjamin

Fantastic trip with Peter and David, look after us and we saw the Northern Lights 4 nights in a row !!!!
Reindeer ride was beyond description and great fun. Would strongly recommend this trip to those that have a sense of adventure.

Den & Sue

Thanks again for an amazing past 8 days. I’ve done a decent amount of travel over the past 14 years and I have to say this workshop has possibly been the best trip I’ve done. Thanks for all the hard work, time and effort you put into making it a reality.

Words can’t describe how appreciative I am and now much I’ve got out of it and will continue to as I absorb and reflect on the time away in the coming weeks (and years).

Adam

It took me about 4 years to decide which tour to book to make my wish of seeing the Northern Lights come true and so the biggest thank you to David and Peter doesn’t seem enough for a truly amazing holiday where I saw the Aurora in all its glory and beauty dance and swirl across the beautiful Lappland sky for 4 consecutive nights.
David and Peter were fabulous hosts and very patient teachers who made every day special. They ensured we photographed the Aurora in different and incredibly beautiful settings and taught us how to take the best possible photo not only of the Aurora but also of the Lappland wildlife and landscape. The nights were cold to say the least but they always made sure they packed the survival kit of hot chocolate.
The accommodation and especially the food was outstanding at the Ice Hotel, Reindeer Lodge and Abisko and the overwhelming silence experienced on a chairlift travelling 900m above sea level to the Abisko Aurora Sky Station at 9pm was surreal. Photographing and walking amongst the reindeer and then reindeer sledding with the local Sami gentlemen were days that I just didn’t want to end.
What also made this tour special was the small group size of only 8 people who by the way were great company and the many funny incidents that happened still make me laugh today.
I cannot recommend this holiday enough.

Kitty

In the lead up to this trip we both said this will be a trip of a lifetime and we’ll most likely never do it again! BUT we both can’t wait to go back again one day.
The experiences were amazing and of course seeing the northern lights was to me what he tour was all about, but it was so much more, the landscape is just stunning, experiencing a little of the traditional Sami culture, the ice hotel

Having already met (the Australian guide from the tour Dave Evans) a number of times we knew we were in for a great trip…. From the minute we met Peter I knew this was going to be an even better trip then expected, you can truly see Peter totally loves being a tour guide, his enthusiasm and love for photography is a standout and of course all things Aurora, & Swedish Lapland. His real genuine want to teach and for all to capture the northern lights is amazing. This, along with being able to spend a week with the 2015 Australian landscape photographer of the year, (Dave Evans) (we learnt a lot about landscape photography) made for an amazing and inspiring tour…
highly recommended… 5 star

Thank you both.

Dave & Ang

I started planning my trip with David Evans and Peter Rosen after reading a newspaper article on what they offered. This was a bucketlist trip, to photograph the aurora, and I wanted it to be all that I dreamed…….it was, and then some! David Evans was a wonderful host through Stockholm, and once entering the Arctic Circle and meeting up with Peter Rosen, the experiences just kept getting better and better! From a night in the Ice Hotel to the beautiful Reindeer Lodge, Abisko Sky Station (accessed by chairlift, worth it just for this!!) and reindeer sledding, and exploring Sami culture – every single day was incredible!

This trip was capped at 8 guests, which meant all guests had great access to the wealth of knowledge and expertise that David and Peter have, both in the area and with photography. I learnt so much about photography, captured some beautiful images, saw the lights dance across the night sky 3 times (!!!!) and have memories that will last me a lifetime!

I would recommend this trip, with David and Peter, to everybody!

Peta

I just spent 5 days with Peter and David exploring the wonders of Lapland …. we couldn’t of been in better hands. Peter organised all of our adventures so well and with such enthusiasm. This was a photography based workshop with plenty of attention and good advise given to our photography – with extra photography equipment on hand if needed, but the non photographers on this trip were not left out and I would recommend this trip to photographers and non photographers alike.

We enjoyed seeing and photographing the Aurora 3 nights out of 4 – each time in a different location, Reindeer sledding, exploring the landscape, searching for (and finding) Moose. All our accommodations were warm and welcoming, and the food excellent throughout the entire trip. Having done several photography workshops in the past this one is definitely the top rating and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend LapplandMedia to anyone ….. Thankyou!

Peter

I booked this tour with Australian pro photographer David Evans, who is a close friend of Lappland media owner and guide Peter Rosen. Together they conducted an absolutely perfect photo tour. Both have extensive photography experience and patience, and Peter has a background in climate science and nature photography. He also has a sixth sense on when and where the aurora will appear. This proved crucial in being able to witness and capture what Peter and David described as the best aurora show of the season, which exploded in the sky above us for over two hours.
The aurora thought was only part of the tour… Stockholm with David as an intro, Ice Hotel, authentic Lapland and Saami history and experiences, reindeer sledding, endless photography, hiking, workshops, world class cuisine and friends for life.

Sure some other tours may offer you a chance at the lights, but none offer as much variety and extra content as well as a very high likelihood of witnessing the greatest light show on earth. Skip the rest and book with the best, you won’t regret your time with Peter Rosen and David Evans.

Sean

I was part of an 8-day photography tour co-hosted by Peter and LapplandMedia. It was superb: Peter’s knowledge of the area is outstanding and he is a talented and patient photograph tutor. His knowledge of the Aurora Borealis is unparalleled, and while it’s always a hit-and-miss affair with the aurora, his knowledge and experience was the trigger for us to go out one evening and take a chance on the conditions. Needless to say, the decision paid off with a beautiful display.
Absolutely recommended. I plan to go back again as soon as time and finances permit.

Michael

I just got back from this amazing 8-day Swedish Lapland Photography excursion. What a wonderful trip. Full of a variety of activities which all had many opportunities to stop and frame our best possible photo shots. Peter and David were excellent coaches, showing skill and patience so that each of us could learn and grow our photography skills. I’ve come home with a great portfolio and even greater memories. Don’t hesitate to sigh up – you will love every minute.

May

You will consider yourself a lucky traveller if you are able to secure Peter Rosen as your guide to Lappland! I was fortunate enough to enjoy a photographic tour provided by David Evans and Peter Rosen in early January 2016 and I had a wonderful time and some unique experiences. Peter is a very knowledgable, friendly and adaptable tour guide. He worked hard to ensure that all members of our group (with about a 30 year range in age!) had a wonderful time exploring northern Sweden, Sampi reindeer herders, beautiful Abisko, the Aurora Borealis and more. I would and have reccommended Peter to family and friends, as for you, what are you waiting for? Book Peter and you wont be disappointed.

Nathan

We spent time in far Northern Sweden with Peter Rosen and David Evans. Despite bitterly cold weather (the lowest it got was -43.5) Peter’s local knowledge kept us safe and happy! We had 5/5 nights with Aurora (at least 3 were excellent to photograph) viewing, exposure to the Sapmi peoples (and in no way was the experience contrived or cheesy) and some of their culture and food. Our accommodations were excellent, the food was far better than I had anticipated in the remote surroundings – in fact they would have been quite at home in any capital city. Peter hunted down moose (for the camera, not for a gun) and reindeer, as well as stunning landscapes in the extremely limited daylight. I would recommend to absolutely anyone and will be talking about it for a long time to come.

Anders

Great time with terrific photographic opportunities on a well organised trip with Peter Rosen and David Evans. Peter is an enthusiastic teacher, knowledgable not only about photography and Auroras but the local area and Sami culture. Thoroughly recommend.

Elizabeth

Great holiday. Peter is a skilled photographic instructor who delights in sharing the local area he knows well. His empathy with the Sammi culture enhanced our trip which had great food,saunas reindeers, moose and auroras. He was able to help us through extreme temperatures with safety and good humour. Great holiday

Jim

Peter knows the Kiruna and Abisko area very well and is able to track down the best opportunities to see the Aurora. He is also a very skilled photographer and as such helps expand the skills of the group with new and relevant techniques. Peter’s empathy with the environment, the local people and the area in general make this a very exciting photographic experience that includes Reindeer, Moose, Sami culture and breathtaking scenery. Peter also understands the conditions very well and takes care of required safety.

Gordon

I highly recommend you book a tour with Peter and David.
It was the most amazing experience I have had in my life!
From reindeer sledding through a snowy forest,to a traditional Sami lunch in a Lavuu (native Sami tent), to the pinnacle of seeing an aurora in real life made this a once in a lifetime trip.
Peter and David will go the extra mile to find you that elusive aurora, teach you how to get the best out of your camera, give you facts and information about the culture of Sweden and even teach you Astro photography if you like!
This isn’t just your average tour, you are taken to amazing destinations that are not typically part of the standard run of the mill tours. You go to places that not many others have been before and it feels special and exclusive.
I had a great time on the tour and will happily recommend Peter and David to anyone wanting the best experience ever!
Thanks!

Wanda

This was not just a holiday but a life experience. Having always wanted to see the Aurora, my husband booked this photographic tour. I like taking pictures on automatic and I do not like the cold, so I was a little apprehensive. However, this was one of the most brilliant experiences we could ever have! David Evans made sure this small group were prepared as he spent the first few days in Stockholm touring with us which included time to buy extra gear. He then linked up with the Swedish photographer Peter Rosen (the “Aurora Hunter’’) who equally as caring made sure we were all looked after. We did not have to think of anything apart from enjoying the exquisite artic experience, depending on the weather: from riding reindeer-pulled sleighs to learning about the indigenous way of life of the Sami People to sleeping in The original Ice Hotel. Then there was The Aurora. I have no words for the magic of the lights. As to the photography, armed with just my WEA (Adult Learning) introductory course to SLRs, under the guidance of these patient renowned photographers, I was delighted to find I could take beautiful photos. The extreme photographers of the group had all the technical tuition they could handle, usually after our evening meal of local delicious fodder. My husband and a few others were not photographers and he enjoyed just being in the middle of this winter wonderland extreme. We lacked for nothing and as to the coldest temperatures we have even been in, we were provided with artic clothing to go over our own clothes. I had the addition of my chemical hand-warmers; others warmed up quickly traipsing in knee deep pristine snow but we were always a hot drink away from anywhere. It was a cosy and warming journey.
This was one of the most incredible experiences we have ever had and worth every cent.

Ayesha & Allan

Reflecting on our wonderful trip to Lappland Sweden as we show the photographs and tell of our adventure to family and friends, the whole experience seems surreal! But real it was indeed – and what a truly fantastic time we had!

We thoroughly enjoyed our trip to Stockholm, Kiruna and Abisko. Peter and David, our guides, photography teachers and in the end our friends were exceptional and made our trip to Lappland so unique.

The group was a good size and the ratio of 4:1 photographic expert to client was excellent. Peter Rosen’s specialist knowledge of the area, the Aurora and the environment was outstanding – the combination of a scientist and photographer meant we were constantly learning. If you want to really get under the skin of an area always talk to a local and in Peter you have not only a local hero, but a scientist and photographer who published the book! A politer, patient and more accommodating man you couldn’t wish to meet and his company was a pleasure. David’s photographic talent, knowledge and teaching was brilliant and his simplification of the subject and CDM will stay with us hopefully as long as our memories last! If you didn’t have your own equipment, there was plenty of up to date cameras and lenses to borrow from Peter who is sponsored by Canon.

The tour was well balanced and flowed nicely. You can never guarantee the Aurora but we were lucky enough to see it 3 out of 5 opportunities and the trip inspired us to reconnect with photography. It has been a long time since I took photographs with my old Canon SLR and this tour has rekindled my interest and made me excited once again about photography. We got some wonderful photographs – the most impressive and highlight – photographing from the roof of Peter’s cabin!

A night at the Ice hotel, 2 at Reindeer lodge and 2 at Abisko Sky station was the ideal combination. Our personal favourite was Reindeer lodge, where the accommodation although basic was fun and an adventure and the cabins were warm and cosy with log fires – and reindeer outside your door! The food from the Ice hotel to the Sky station was delicious and delightfully local.

If you like photography and want to see the Aurora choose this trip and you will be star struck!

Yvette

Just home from the 8 day trip and it was much more than I could have dreamed of. Reading through the trip description before booking, I thought that it could not deliver everything described there – well it did and more.
The care and attention to detail over selected locations to visit, activities provided, warm clothing, food, accommodation, support with photography and kit if required was superb. It was amazing.
Peter provided a depth of knowledge for the Aurora that combined the poetic and the scientific and his obvious passion and happiness for seeing it is infectious. All at the same time he is ensuring that everyone is capturing images, is comfortable and gets the most out of every location and experience. We saw the Aurora on at least 4 nights we were there.
Attention to detail and the care shown by Peter and the staff at the Aurora Camp and the Abisko hotel just left me feeling coccooned and feeling very well looked after. Vegan food request was handled without fuss and meals were superb.
The warm weather gear we were supplied with was clearly of a higher quality than some other tours we saw so for me, I didn’t feel the cold at all – even with temperatures dropping to minus 32 deg C on one day.
Every day and night was filled with wonder and awe – all due to the mix of activities (dog sledding, reindeer sledding, aurora hunting, iced rivers and lakes , mountains, moose spotting and more and then even more …!).
Small group size helped me feel like each location could be experienced both as part of a group but also with enough space to also experience each location / activity privately, which was important to me. It also meant practically that everyone received personal help with capturing images, regardless of expertise or experience level as well as help with practical things like walking in deep snow for the first time!
Sweden made its mark on me and I was extremely sorry to leave. There is a quietness that seeps into your soul, a gentleness that takes your breath away whilst the starkness of the landscape reminds you that nature has primacy here. You spend the whole time in a state of awe at the beauty and scale of what is around you.
In this world of rush, rush, rush, it was humbling to reconnect with somewhere where Man does work and wants to work with the rhythms of the seasons as survival depends on it as well as helping to define and simplify what the real priorities in life should be.
It obviously also makes me philosophical!
I travelled as a solo female traveller and the group I was with was a mixture of couples and singles but everyone was so lovely, it didn’t make a difference if you were there on your own or with someone.
Just book it – it will be one of the most amazing, magical, stupendous and beautiful experiences of your life. You won’t want to come home.
All whilst the ‘details’ and practicalities are superbly handled by Peter and the team he has around him – you will feel incredibly well looked after and as a valued and welcome guest.

Tracey

I’m a lucky man. I’ve just spent the most amazing 7 days chasing the Northern Lights.

Firstly, and most importantly I cannot say enough about our local host Peter Rosén. He went above and beyond to ensure we were well looked after and he found us great places to see the lights. Listening to Peter you are struck by his knowledge, passion and love for this land and especially photographing it. Secondly, whilst the “lights” were the main reason for being there, we also had the pleasure of a meal with a Sámi family. It felt natural and in no way kitsch. Certainly, a highlight.

When I arrived in Kiruna, I was a “point and shoot” photographer (still am). But Peter gave me confidence during the week that I thought I could photograph anything. But reading and seeing the pictures in his book “Aurora Borealis in Lapland” it did bring me back down to earth. However, photographically, the main thing I did learn is that good photography is not necessarily knowing what the buttons on the camera can do but what you see with your eyes. If you like it then it’s the best photograph in the world.

We were a fortunate group. We had good showings of the “lights” on five of the first six nights. But nothing could have prepared us for the seventh and last night. Peter could sense the “lights” were out there somewhere. Even driving kilometres into Norway to find them. Some people say they can hear the “lights”. I’m sure Peter could smell them.

When it looked like our night was over and with a moderate to good showing, the sky exploded. All around us was a sea of dancing colours, shapes and wonderment. Just like Peter had predicted. The “lights” were in full bloom and they just stop you in your tracks, you just don’t know where to look next. The lights had the strange effect on some of the people in our group. They made adults roll about on the snow looking at the sky constantly sighing “wow” and other exclamations of joy and wonder. (And absolutely no sex involved).

When the “lights” come out as they did on the last night It’s a tough choice, do you watch them or photograph them. In the end, it’s no contest. You have to watch them. I am indeed a lucky man.

PS
Did I also tell you we “ate like lords”, visited the famous Ice Hotel, chased moose, fought reindeer, drove on frozen lakes on snow mobiles, drank hot chocolate in remote locations, slipped waist deep into snow and smelt dogs farting on two dog sleigh rides? Well, we did all that as well.

Lewis

If you plan on a trip to see the lights. Definitely do it with David and Peter. Totally attentive to your needs in every way. I was the fussiest eater on our trip. But they made sure I didn’t go hungry. Met David in Stockholm, where he organised tours of the Old and Modern towns. FANTASTIC. Staying at the Ice Hotel was an experience that we were hesitant about. But totally worth doing too. Sunset was amazing. Reindeer Lodge was absolutely beautiful. We would love to go back again. Abisko is stunning and a chance to take even more photos. Moose hunting, frozen lakes and frozen waterfalls. David and peter taught us so much about how to use a camera properly and the end pictures were amazing. The knowledge shared about photography and the country is beyond words.

Bronwyn

About David Evans

David Evans is a former Lonely Planet photographer and a Master of Photography II (AIPP) who creates photographs of high fidelity, depth and substance. He started photographing in the 90’s, and works full-time as a landscape, travel and commercial photographer. David’s motivation is to remind us that wild, untamed and sublime places are critical elixirs in life…and through travel, nature, observation and art, we find clarity.

Kayell AIPP Australian Landscape Photographer of the Year runner-up 2008

South Australian Living Artist Festival 2008 Atkins Technicolour Award for Photo-Based Art

2008 Moran Contemporary Photographic Prize Semi-finalist

1999 Australian National Tertiary Art Prize finalist

Curator of The EPSON International Pano Awards

Co-curator of The International Landscape Photographer of the Year

Author of The Face of Australia, The Face of New Zealand & Australia: Facing the South

About Peter Rosén

Peter Rosén has a long and successful career as an environmental researcher in Abisko, Swedish Lapland. The breathtaking mountains and subarctic wilderness were always a part of his daily life and quickly became the subject of his favourite hobby – capturing the ever-changing beauty of Lapland on film. In 1996 he founded his media company to satisfy the increasing requests to purchase the images so many people found absolutely stunning. What Peter sees through his lens conveys the true spirit of Lapland, everything visitors long for.

Peter’s education and research on the environment, love of photography and dedication to quality have transformed his hobby into a successful and highly-acclaimed career as a full-time photographer.

Peter is the author of the best-selling book, ‘Aurora Borealis in Lapland’.

A deposit of AUD 2500 (includes GST for Australian participants), is payable at the time of booking to secure your place. If you cancel, your deposit will only be refunded if your place is filled by another person, or we can transfer you to another group if availability permits. Deposit payments can be made by Credit Card, direct deposit, cheque or Paypal.

The balance of SEK 36,000 (AUD 5440) plus the single supplement if applicable of SEK 3500 (AUD 529) will be payable in full 90 days from departure in SEK (Swedish Krona) directly to our Swedish tour agent, in order to comply with the Travel Guarantees Act and insurance requirements in Sweden. We will provide the final invoice and payment details for easy transfer of the balance.

Please note; based on exchange rate as at 22/10/2019. Although the currency exchange is relatively stable, we cannot be held liable for currency fluctuations between the time of booking and the time of final payment in Swedish currency.

A special note about the Aurora Borealis

Although the chance of seeing the aurora is quite high, we cannot guarantee a sighting. Our itinerary includes many other activities and photographic opportunities, in case we are unlucky. However, our local guides have been taking groups aurora watching for over 7 years and have never had a multi-day group that has left without seeing the aurora. We can only cross our fingers and hope we are not the first group to go home empty handed! Although, we must never point at it or whistle to it…they say it is bad luck!

Full terms

**See tour exclusions and inclusions as stated above above**This photography tour is operated by David Evans Photography in conjunction with LapplandMedia & PhotoAdventures AB.To reserve your place, complete the online booking form.A deposit of AUD 2500 (includes GST for Australian participants), is payable at the time of booking to secure your place. If you cancel, your deposit will only be refunded if your place is filled by another person, or we can transfer you to another group if availability permits. Deposit payments can be made by Credit Card, direct deposit, cheque or Paypal.The balance of SEK 36,000 (AUD 5440) plus the single supplement if applicable of SEK 3500 (AUD 529) will be payable in full 90 days from departure in SEK (Swedish Krona) directly to our Swedish tour agent, in order to comply with the Travel Guarantees Act and insurance requirements in Sweden. We will provide the final invoice and payment details for easy transfer of the balance. Please note; based on exchange rate as at 22/10/2019. Although the currency exchange is relatively stable, we cannot be held liable for currency fluctuations between the time of booking and the time of final payment in Swedish currency.

The booking form will require you to acknowledge you have read and understood these terms.

With each payment you will receive an order confirmation which is a copy of your agreement with David Evans Photography and LapplandMedia & PhotoAdventures AB. If something is incorrect, please contact us immediately.If we have not received the total amounts within the stated timeframes and/or we cannot contact you via the details you have provided, your booking may be cancelled.All cancellations must be in writing. Excluding the non-refundable deposit, cancellations made between 90 and 41 days before arrival will be charged at 25% of the amount paid. Cancellations within 40 days of arrival and after commencement of the tour will not be refunded for any reason.Prices are based on group participation and no refunds will be given for non-participation in scheduled activities. All activities are weather dependant. If a scheduled activity cannot proceed due to circumstances outside our control, we will endeavour to arrange an alternative activity. Refunds will not be provided under such circumstances.We reserve the right to alter the total cost of the tour if significant material cost increases arise. Although this is unlikely, we will inform you in writing if it occurs.In event of damage or loss to our cameras an excess of maximum SEK 5 000 (AUD 755) per incident/camera will be charged to the person who was using the camera.We reserve the right to set a minimum number of participants in each group (generally 4 people). In case of insufficient numbers, you will be informed if the tour is cancelled at least 45 days before the tours starting date and all monies will be refunded. Please wait until your group is confirmed before booking airfares and additional accommodation.Tours may be cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances such as strikes, wars, acts of God, pandemics, tour leader illness, volcanic eruptions, and acts of terrorism. We will not be held responsible for costs incurred by registered participants with third parties such as airlines or special purchases such as clothing, in such cases.All guests participate in the tour at their own risk. We insist all participants take out travel and accident insurances including cancellation and interruption cover.A moderate level of fitness is required for activities, such as reindeer sledding and walking through deep snow. Minimum age for participation is 15 years.You are required to let us know of any prior medical conditions and dietary requirements. Whilst we will take all care, we will not be held responsible for symptoms relating to these.David Evans Photography and LapplandMedia & PhotoAdventures AB owners, agents and employees assume no responsibility whatsoever caused for injury, loss or damage to person or property in connection with any service resulting directly from: acts of God, detention, annoyance, delays, expenses arising from quarantine, strikes, thefts, pilferage, force majeure, failure of any means of conveyance to arrive or depart as scheduled, civil disturbances, terrorism, government restrictions or regulations and discrepancies or changes in transit or hotel services over which it has no control. Reasonable changes in the itinerary may be made where deemed advisable for the comfort and well being of the participants. In the case of medical problems arising during the tour, which results in costs for evacuation, use of aircraft or repatriation, the responsibility for payment of these costs belongs solely to the passenger. We strongly advise passengers ensure that such eventualities are covered by travel insurance. If not covered by travel insurance the responsibility still remains with the passenger and we specifically decline any responsibility whatsoever.General information about Travel Guarantees Act in Sweden on behalf of LapplandMedia & PhotoAdventures AB; The selling of package tours is regulated in the Travel Guarantees Act. The purpose of the Act is to protect travellers if a travel arrangement is cancelled or interrupted. The Act applies to anyone who sells package tours. For more information contact the Swedish Legal, Financial and Administrative Services Agency, +46 08 700 08 00. LapplandMedia & PhotoAdventures AB has lodged security with the Swedish Legal, Financial and Administrative Services Agency.